“There was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“There was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew humorously reflects on the vanity and self-consciousness often associated with physical beauty. “Fair woman” refers to a beautiful woman, and the phrase “made mouths in a glass” suggests that such women, upon seeing their own reflection, engage in the habit of making facial expressions or admiring themselves in the mirror, perhaps adjusting their appearance or indulging in self-reflection. The quote implies that beauty, especially when it is admired by others, can lead to self-absorption or a preoccupation with one’s own looks, as people, particularly women in this context, often check their appearance in the mirror.
In modern contexts, this quote can be interpreted as a playful commentary on self-image and vanity. It reflects how people, especially in a culture that places a high value on physical appearance, may frequently check their reflection or make facial expressions as part of their self-assessment or self-affirmation. While the quote is somewhat humorous, it also points to how societal standards of beauty can encourage people to focus on their external appearance rather than their inner qualities.
Ultimately, this quote highlights the human tendency toward self-reflection and the often superficial nature of beauty. It invites us to think about the role of vanity in our lives and how we may become too preoccupied with how we are perceived by others, rather than focusing on more meaningful aspects of our identity.
